Royals' Alex Rios says thumb better, but problem will linger

Rios sat out two games after jamming the thumb, the same injury he suffered last season.

Even though the thumb is improved, Rios said he'll likely have to manage the condition all season long.

Royals OF Alex Rios out at least two games with thumb injury

by Igor Mello | CBSSports.com

(3/26/2015)Royals outfielder Alex Rios is expected to sit out at least two games due to a jammed thumb, according to MLB.com. Rios lost the last month of the 2014 to the same thumb injury. He is hitting .333/.349/.619 with three home runs in 42 spring at-bats.

Gordon, Rios never batted second last season. Cain had only only 13 plate appearances at the No. 2 spot in 2014. Hosmer played 33 games and logged 144 plate appearance at the No. 2 spot in 2014, slashing .275/.326/.344 in those appearances.

Royals OF Alex Rios confident he will hit for power in 2015

by Michael Hurcomb | CBSSports.com

(3/3/2015)Royals outfielder Alex Rios is coming off a down season offensively in 2014, particularly in the power department as he hit just four home runs in 131 games with the Rangers.

"I played through the second half of the season with two injuries, actually. I had a bad ankle and my thumb was swollen up and I had to get surgery," Rios said. "I believe it did affect me. I didn't want to use it as an excuse, but I really believe it affected my performance during the second half. I believe if I was healthy, I could have done better."

Kauffman Stadium is not an ideal park for power hitters, as the club record for home runs is 36 and no Kansas City player has hit 30 home runs since Jermaine Dye had 33 in 2000. However, Rios is confident he will be able to hit for power at Kauffman Stadium.

"You know what, in my career I've been able to hit for power -- gap-to-gap power -- and I think this is the right ballpark to do this type of thing," Rios said. "I think this is a ballpark that all of us as offensive players can take advantage of because of how the gaps are."

"We tried to acquire Torii Hunter. When that fell through, with Alex Rios, we felt he fit our ballpark and style of play," Moore said. "He is capable of hitting 40 doubles."

Rios has hit .271 with a .335 on-base percentage, .429 slugging percentage, .763 OPS, three triples, five home runs, 12 doubles and 15 RBI in 53 career games at Kauffman Stadium.

Royals agree with OF Rios on option for 2016

by Marty Gitlin | CBSSports.com

(12/19/2014)The Royals could have newly acquired outfielder Alex Rios sticking around for a second season. He has officially signed a one-year contract with a mutual option for 2016.

Rios lost his power in 2014. He hit just four home runs, but still finished with a respectable slash line of .280/.311/.398 and ripped 30 doubles.

Alex Rios signs one-year deal with Royals

by Chris Cwik | CBSSports.com

(12/15/2014)The Royals have signed outfielder Alex Rios to a one-year deal, according to CBSSports.com Baseball Insider Jon Heyman.

Rios will make $11 million next season. The 33-year-old hit .280/.311/.398 over 492 at-bats with the Rangers last year. With the move, Rios returns to the AL Central, where he played between 2009 and 2013. Rios will take over in right field after the team lost Norichika Aoki to free agency.

Mariners, Royals, Indians among teams checking in on Alex Rios

by Igor Mello | CBSSports.com

(12/5/2014)According to CBSSports.com Baseball Insider Jon Heyman, the Mariners, Royals and Indians are among the teams that have "checked in" on outfielder Alex Rios.

Rios became a free agent at the end of October after the Rangers bought out his contract for $1 million. The 33-year-old slashed .280/.311/.398 over 492 at-bats last season.

Rangers decline option on Alex Rios

Rios was due $13.5 million for 2015. Instead of paying him, the team opted to buy out his contract for $1 million. The 33-year-old will look to hook on with another team this offseason. Rios hit .280/.311/.398 over 492 at-bats last season.

Report: Rangers decline option on OF Alex Rios

by Marty Gitlin | CBSSports.com

(10/15/2014)What was previously reported has apparently played out - the Rangers have declined the team option on outfielder Alex Rios, per CBSSports.com MLB Insider Jon Heyman.

Rios proved highly disappointing during an injury ravaged season for his team in 2014. He managed a respectable stat line of .280/.311/.398, but he slugged just four home runs, none after July 6. He scored a career-low 54 runs and also drove in 54, his second-lowest total.

He will now try to maximize his potential in free agency.

Report: Rangers to allow Alex Rios to test free agency

by Marty Gitlin | CBSSports.com

(10/8/2014)The Rangers are expected to decline their 2015 option on outfielder Alex Rios, who experienced a stunning power outage this year, per MLBDailyDish.com. The move will save them $13.5 million.

Rios managed a stat line of .280/.311/.398, but compiled just 54 RBI in 492 at-bats. He did not homer after July 6 and finished the season with four. Rios lost the last month to a thumb injury.

Alex Rios' season is over

by Al Melchior | Data Analyst

(9/21/2014)The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports that Rangers outfielder Alex Rios has been shut down for the remainder of the season. Rios has been out since Sept. 4 with an infected thumb.

Rios played 131 games for Texas this season and hit .280 with four home runs, 54 RBI, 54 runs and 17 stolen bases.

'Increasingly likely' Rangers part ways with Alex Rios

by R.J. White | CBSSports.com

(9/17/2014)Rangers outfielder Alex Rios "most likely" won't be back with the team next season, MLB.com reports.

The Rangers hold a $14-million option on Rios for 2015, but "it appears increasingly likely" the team will instead pay the $1-million buyout. Shin-Soo Choo is expected to shift to Rios' position next season.

"I'm just waiting to see what will happen," Rios said. "The team has to make the decision. You don't know if they are going to try going the free-agent route or go with a farm product. It's tough to tell."

Alex Rios out a week due to a thumb injury

Rios will be out for one week due to the injury. He's been bothered by the injury for some time now. Rios is hitting .280/.311/.398 over 492 at-bats.

Rangers resting Alex Rios on Friday

by Marty Gitlin | CBSSports.com

(9/5/2014)Right fielder Alex Rios is out of the lineup for the Rangers on Friday night against Seattle. Ryan Rua is set to man the position instead.

Rios owns a .280/.311/.398 stat line, but has not homered in two months.

Alex Rios returns to lineup Friday

by Chris Towers | CBSSports.com

(8/29/2014)Rangers outfielder Alex Rios was back in the starting lineup Friday against the Astros, after missing the team's previous game with a thumb injury.

Rios wanted to play in Thursday's game, but was held out as a precaution, so it is not a big surprise to see him back in the lineup. He is batting third and starting in right field for the second game of the series.

Alex Rios sitting due to thumb

by Chris Cwik | CBSSports.com

(8/28/2014)Rangers outfielder Alex Rios was not in the starting lineup Thursday against the Astros, according to the Dallas Morning News.

Rios will miss the game due to a thumb injury. Rios indicated he wanted to play, but manager Ron Washington thought it was for the best to hold him out. Washington expects Rios to start Friday.

Alex Rios ends slumber at the plate with single, double

by Marty Gitlin | CBSSports.com

(8/20/2014)Alex Rios is still waiting for his first home run since July 6, but the Rangers outfielder did emerge from a long slump Wednesday in Miami.

Rios managed his first multi-hit game since July 29 with a single and run in the first inning and two-run double in the second. He had been on a 6-for-50 slide.

It's 'thumbs-up' for Alex Rios against Marlins

by Marty Gitlin | CBSSports.com

(8/20/2014)Rangers outfielder Alex Rios is back in the lineup for the Wednesday game in Miami. Thumb ailments have limited him to just one at-bat since Sunday.

Rios hopes he can pick it up upon his return. He has not enjoyed a multi-hit game since July 29 and is 6 for 50 since.

Alex Rios strikes out in only at-bat Tuesday

by R.J. White | CBSSports.com

(8/20/2014)Rangers outfielder Alex Rios struck out in his only at-bat Tuesday after being scratched from the lineup with a thumb injury before the game.

Rios took the field as part of a double-switch in the bottom of the ninth and struck out in the top of the 10th. The Marlins broke through for a win in the next half-inning. Rios has hit .284/.313/.399 with four home runs, 49 RBI and 16 stolen bases in 444 at-bats.

Alex Rios scratched with thumb issue

Rios has been dealing with the issue for a while, but has been able to play through it. He was unable to hit prior to the game Tuesday, which is why he was scratched. Rios is hitting .284/.313/.400 over 443 at-bats.

Alex Rios returns to action Wednesday

by Chris Cwik | CBSSports.com

(8/13/2014)Rangers outfielder Alex Rios has returned to action Wednesday.

Rios is dealing with an ankle injury. He's not ready to play the field just yet, so he'll serve as the designated hitter during Wednesday's game. Rios is hitting .293/.323/.414 over 423 at-bats.

Alex Rios expected to return to lineup Wednesday

Rios could return to right field or fill the designated hitter slot. He could have to deal with the aftereffects of his sprained ankle all year, which would leave manager Ron Washington having to juggle DH time for both Rios and outfielder Shin-Soo Choo moving forward.

Alex Rios to return to lineup Sunday

(8/9/2014)Rangers outfielder Alex Rios said and manager Ron Washington confirmed that Rios would definitely be in the starting lineup for Sunday's game against the Astros, MLB.com reports.

"He's playing tomorrow. No questions about it," Washington said Saturday. "He told you my thoughts before I even thought it. Definitely tomorrow. Just giving it a rest."

Rios has been out since Wednesday while nursing an ankle injury.

Alex Rios sidelined, as expected, Saturday

by Chris Towers | CBSSports.com

(8/9/2014)As expected, Rangers outfielder Alex Rios is not in the lineup for Saturday's game against the Astros, as he continues to deal with an ankle injury. Rios is expected to miss the weekend series as a result of the injury, which he aggravated Friday.

Alex Rios aggravates ankle, likely out a few days

by Chris Towers | CBSSports.com

(8/8/2014)Rangers outfielder Alex Rios will be limited to pinch-hitting duties for the next few days, after re-aggravating a right ankle injury Friday, ESPN.com reports.

Rios is out of the lineup Friday against the Astros as a result of the injury, and his availability for the remainder of the series is in question. He initially suffered the ankle injury two weeks ago, an injury which cost him four games.

Alex Rios set up for trade after clearing waivers

by Marty Gitlin | CBSSports.com

(8/8/2014)Rangers right fielder Alex Rios, who has suffered through a stunning power outage this season, has cleared revocable waivers and could be traded before the Aug. 31 deadline, per ESPNDallas.com.

Rios, whose suitors reportedly include the Giants, Mariners, Yankees, Reds and Royals, has just four home runs in 420 at-bats this season after averaging 18 over the last nine years. He has also slumped lately with three hits in his last 26 at-bats.

Report: Alex Rios placed on revocable waivers

Rios has been traded twice in his career after going on revocable waivers. He has hit .296/.326/.417 with four home runs, 44 RBI and 16 stolen bases in 412 at-bats. Rios is making $12.5 million this season and has a $13.5-million club option for next year with a $1 million buyout.

Alex Rios still wary of trade despite deadline passed

by Marty Gitlin | CBSSports.com

(8/1/2014)The trade deadline has come and gone, but Rangers left fielder Alex Rios still believes he could be dealt away in a waiver deal. Such a swap has happened to him twice already in his career.

"I'm not off the hook yet," he told the Dallas Morning News. "But as of right now, I'm content to just focus on baseball. My duty is to come out and play the game."

Rios has played the game quite well this season, but with far less power than he had exhibited in the past. He has just four home runs nearly two-thirds into the season.

Alex Rios fine for Friday start against Indians

by Marty Gitlin | CBSSports.com

(8/1/2014)Rangers left fielder Alex Rios has returned to the lineup for the Friday night game in Cleveland. He had been dealing with a quad ailment.

Rios has also been dealing with a power outage. He has just four home runs in 395 at-bats despite a .304 batting average.

Report: Bevy of teams eyeing Alex Rios

(7/31/2014)Several teams have expressed an interest in Rangers right fielder Alex Rios, per CBSSports.com Baseball Insider Jon Heyman. Among them are the Mariners, Indians, Giants, Royals and Reds.

Rios has experienced a serious power outage this season with four home runs in 394 at-bats. But he still owns a strong stat line of .304/.335/.430. His batting average has been above .300 since May 20 and he has racked up 22 doubles and eight triples.

Alex Rios, Neal Cotts likely on move from Texas

by Chris Towers | CBSSports.com

(7/31/2014)The Rangers are expected to be very active ahead of Thursday's non-waiver trade deadline, FOXSports.com reports.

According to the report, the Rangers were aggressively trying to move outfielder Alex Rios and reliever Neal Cotts Thursday morning. Both players have been linked to trade rumors leading up to the deadline, with the Rangers well out of the race during an injury-plagued season.

Alex Rios hit by pitch, exits game Wednesday

Rios' name has come up in trade rumors this month, and it's possible the team doesn't want to risk further injury by having him play after getting plunked. He has hit .304/.335/.430 with four home runs, 43 RBI and 16 stolen bases in 395 at-bats.

Though, the Yankees might prefer Willingham the most because of his contract situation. Still, Byrd and Rios haven't been ruled out.

Alex Rios: Trade talks no part of struggles on field

by Marty Gitlin | CBSSports.com

(7/23/2014)Rangers outfielder Alex Rios has denied a report citing an unnamed friend as indicating that trade talks have negatively affected his performance. He is batting just .247 with a .266 on-base percentage over the last month, but has stated that trade rumors have not played a part.

"I don't know where that comes from," he told the Dallas Morning News. "It's something I haven't said. It does not affect me in the field. Sure you think about it, in that you see your name out there or you hear people talking about it, but to say it has an impact, that's just an excuse."

Alex Rios overcomes ankle problem to return to Rangers

by Marty Gitlin | CBSSports.com

(7/23/2014)Rangers left fielder Alex Rios has returned to the lineup for the Wednesday game against the host Yankees after being sidelined since Saturday with an ankle issue.

Rios has been one of the few healthy bright lights for Texas this season with a stat line of .302/.330/.435, though he has a disappointing four home runs in 368 at-bats.

Alex Rios, Jake Smolinski expected to be available Wednesday

by R.J. White | CBSSports.com

(7/22/2014)The Rangers expect outfielders Alex Rios and Jake Smolinski to both be available Wednesday, MLB.com reports.

Rios was out of the lineup for a third straight day Tuesday while nursing a sprained ankle, but he said he's ready to return. "It felt good," Rios said before the game. "I know Wash wanted to give me an extra day, but I'm ready. I expect to be as good as ever."

Smolinski was removed from Monday's game after fouling a ball off his foot. "As of right now, it's nothing to be concerned about," manager Ron Washington said Tuesday of Smolinski's injury. "It's just sore where it hit off his foot."

Ankle still keeping Alex Rios out Tuesday

by Chris Towers | CBSSports.com

(7/22/2014)Rangers outfielder Alex Rios is out of the starting lineup for Tuesday's game against the Yankees, as he continues to deal with an ankle injury.

Rios has missed three starts as a result of the injury, but is expected back before the end of the series Thursday.

Rangers expect Alex Rios back during series

by Chris Towers | CBSSports.com

(7/22/2014)Rangers outfielder Alex Rios was able to work out prior to Tuesday's game in New York, and CBSSports.com Baseball Insider Jon Heyman reports he is expected to return from an ankle injury at some point during the team's current series.

Rios was forced out of the lineup Sunday and Monday due to an ankle injury, but should return before Thursday's series finale. It is not clear whether he will play Tuesday, however.

Report: Blue Jays among teams interested in Alex Rios

by Chris Towers | CBSSports.com

(7/22/2014)The Blue Jays have expressed interest in outfielder Alex Rios, according to a report from CBSSports.com Baseball Insider Jon Heyman.

The Blue Jays are dealing with injuries to the starting lineup, and could have interest in re-acquiring Rios, who spent parts of six seasons with the Blue Jays earlier in his career. He is hitting .302/.330/.435 in 96 games for the Rangers this season, with four home runs and 42 RBI.

The Royals and Mariners have also expressed interest in Rios, who has a team option worth $13.5 million for next season.

Royals considering Alex Rios

by Larry Hartstein | CBSSports.com

(7/21/2014)The slumping Royals are considering trading for Rangers right fielder Alex Rios, reports CBS Sports Baseball Insider Jon Heyman. Rios would boost Kansas City's offense, but he's scheduled to make $12 million this year and has a $13.5 million option for 2015.

According to Heyman, Rios also has a limited no-trade list of six teams to which he can block trades.

Rangers optimistic about Alex Rios

by Larry Hartstein | CBSSports.com

(7/21/2014)Rangers manager Ron Washington said outfielder Alex Rios, who sat out Sunday with a sprained right ankle, is showing significant improvement.

"His ankle is much better than it was [Saturday] when he left [the game]," Washington told MLB.com. "Get the swelling out of there a little more. Get treatment the whole day [Sunday], probably get treatment all day on Monday."

Rios has appeared in 96 games this season and appears on track to play Tuesday against the Yankees.

Alex Rios out until Tuesday with ankle problem

by Marty Gitlin | CBSSports.com

(7/20/2014)An ankle ailment that has White Sox outfielder Alex Rios sidelined Sunday against Houston will keep him out at least until Tuesday. The team opens a series in New York against the Yankees on Monday.

Rios left the Saturday game during his first at-bat with the injury. He twisted the ankle in the batter's box.

Shin-Soo Choo, Alex Rios both out in Canada

The latter is out with an ankle injury while Choo is simply getting a rest. The All-Star break did not help Choo emerge from an extended slump. He is 0 for 8 against the Blue Jays and hasn't had a hit since July 10.

Alex Rios exits mid-AB with ankle sprain

by Chris Towers | CBSSports.com

(7/19/2014)Rangers outfielder Alex Rios was forced to leave Saturday's game against the Blue Jays during his first at-bat, due to an ankle injury.

Rios was replaced mid-at-bat by Daniel Robertson, after he twisted his ankle in the batter's box. Rios had X-rays taken on the ankle during the game, which came back negative. He is considered day to day moving forward.

Alex Rios drives in three

by Larry Hartstein | CBSSports.com

(7/14/2014)Rangers outfielder Alex Rios hit a two-run double and a sacrifice fly in Sunday's 10-7 loss to the Angels, giving him 42 RBI at the All-Star break. Rios went 2 for 3 with a run scored and is batting .305/.333/.440.

In his last three games, Rios is 5 for 11 with two stolen bases.

Rangers to consider deals for 'core-type' players

by Chris Cwik | CBSSports.com

(6/25/2014)The Rangers will consider what their "core-type" players will bring back in a trade, according to the Dallas Morning News.

Realistically, the leaves Elvis Andrus and Alex Rios are the most likely to be moved. The team could also see what Adrian Beltre will bring back in a potential deal. Both Andrus and Beltre are owed a significant amount of money going forward, and it's possible the team would have to cover some salary in deals for either player. General manager Jon Daniels said the team is in a position to make some deals, but hedged by saying "there is no rule you have to make a major change before the deadline."

Alex Rios, Michael Choice ejected for arguing balls and strikes

by Chris Towers | CBSSports.com

(6/22/2014)The Rangers were unhappy with the work of home plate umpire Vic Carapazza Saturday, as two players were tossed from the team's game against the Angels.

Designated hitter Alex Rios was ejected in the fourth inning and outfielder Michael Choice followed his lead in the 10th. Both players were tossed for arguing balls and strikes, though Choice's came after he struck out looking.

Alex Rios keeps racking up multi-hit games

by Michael Hurcomb | CBSSports.com

(5/25/2014)Rangers outfielder Alex Rios went 2 for 6 with three RBI during Sunday's 12-4 win at Detroit. Rios had an RBI single in the first inning and added a two-RBI triple in a five-run fifth inning.

Rios has produced multi-hit games in five straight appearances and has hit safely in eight straight games. He is batting .389 (14 for 36) with two triples, two doubles and eight RBI during his hitting streak.

Collision, head injury has Daniel Robertson out of game

by Marty Gitlin | CBSSports.com

(5/22/2014)A collision with teammate Alex Rios has knocked Rangers outfielder Daniel Robertson out of the Thursday game against Detroit. He was hurt while diving for a ball when Rios nailed him in the head trying to make the play.

Robertson managed his third hit in 20 at-bats this season with a single to lead off the game.

Alex Rios knocks solo home run in loss Wednesday

by R.J. White | CBSSports.com

(5/15/2014)Rangers outfielder Alex Rios went 1 for 4 with a solo home run in his team's 5-4 loss to the Astros Wednesday.

Rios kicked off the scoring with a second-inning home run, but he wasn't able to do anything over the remainder of the game. He has hit .306/.343/.459 with three home runs, 21 RBI and seven stolen bases in 157 at-bats.

Alex Rios reaches base four times in win over Rockies

by Igor Mello | CBSSports.com

(5/9/2014)Rangers outfielder Alex Rios reached base in all four of his plate appearances on Thursday against Colorado.

Rios, who entered Thursday on an 0-for-11 slide, doubled in the second and singled in the sixth. He finished 2 for 2 with two walks and a run scored in a 5-0 win. He is hitting .311 with nine doubles, two triples, two homers, five stolen bases and 17 RBI in 135 at-bats.

Alex Rios hits first homer in month to help Rangers win

by Marty Gitlin | CBSSports.com

(5/3/2014)Alex Rios is off to a slow start in the power department, but he did blast his second home run of the season and first since the opener Friday night against the Angels.

Rios took Hector Santiago deep in the sixth inning and added a single to elevate his average to .327. He owns a decent .469 slugging percentage despite his comparative shortage of homers.

Alex Rios hitting third, Prince Fielder batting cleanup vs. Houston

by Igor Mello | CBSSports.com

(4/11/2014)With Adrian Beltre out of the lineup, the Rangers will go with outfielder Alex Rios batting third and first baseman Prince Fielderbatting cleanup in the lineup Friday against Houston, ESPN Dallas reports.

"Rios has hit fourth a little bit in his career, but he's not a fourth hitter," manager Ron Washington said. "I want to put him somewhere where he's comfortable. I just switched them."

Alex Rios homers in three-hit debut

by R.J. White | CBSSports.com

(7:01 pm ET)Rangers outfielder Alex Rios had a strong offensive performance in Monday's opener, going 3 for 5 with a home run, three runs and three RBI in his team's 14-10 loss to the Phillies.

Rios was a fast starter last season as well, putting together a 10-game hitting streak that included 16 total hits and four home runs. He went on to hit .278/.324/.432 with 18 home runs, 81 RBI and 42 stolen bases in 616 at-bats last season.

Alex Rios able to return Thursday

by Chris Cwik | CBSSports.com

(3/13/2014)Rangers outfielder Alex Rios is in the team's starting lineup Thursday, according to the Dallas Morning News.

Rios has been dealing with an oblique injury, and wasn't expected to return until Saturday. He'll hit fifth and play right field. Rios hit .278/.324/.432 in 616 at-bats last year.

Rangers duo targeting Saturday for game action

by Marty Gitlin | CBSSports.com

(3/12/2014)The Rangers have targeted the Saturday game against Oakland for the return of two key players to the lineup. Both outfielder Alex Rios (right oblique) and catcher Geovany Soto (left foot) are slated to play.

Soto has yet to play in spring training while recovering from foot surgery. He is in a race to be ready to assume the starting job on opening day. Rios has been out for a week with a rib cage injury.

Rangers 'waiting' on Alex Rios to tell them he's ready to play

by Michael Hurcomb | CBSSports.com

(3/11/2014)Rangers outfielder Alex Rios remains sidelined with a strained intercostal muscle in his right rib cage. He has been out since March 4, but Rios is taking batting practice.

"We're waiting for him to tell us when he is ready," assistant general manager Thad Levine said, per MLB.com.

Muscle issue has Alex Rios sidelined again on Saturday

Assistant general manager Thad Levine told the Dallas Morning News that the team is simply moving with precaution. He added that Rios would probably be playing through the injury if this was the regular season.

Alex Rios sidelined by rib injury

by R.J. White | CBSSports.com

(3/7/2014)Rangers outfielder Alex Rios is not expected to be available to play before Sunday due to a strained muscle in his right ribcage, MLB.com reports.

Rios is 4 for 10 with one walk and two stolen bases in four games this spring.

Alex Rios day to day with oblique strain

by Chris Cwik | CBSSports.com

(3/6/2014)Rangers outfielder Alex Rios is day to day with an oblique strain, according to the Star-Telegram.

The injury is considered mild, and Rios will only miss a few days. Oblique issues can become serious, so the team will likely be pretty cautious with Rios. He hit .278/.324/.432 in 616 at-bats last year.

Alex Rios singles in spring game Friday

by R.J. White | CBSSports.com

(2/28/2014)Rangers outfielder Alex Rios went 1 for 3 while serving as the team's designated hitter in Friday's 11-1 loss to the Royals.

Rios has been dealing with soreness in his big toe that's the result of chronic turf toe. "It was been an issue for seven years and it's not going to go away," he told MLB.com Friday. "I've learned how to manage it and I've learned how to play with it."

Rios received an anti-inflammation injection to help alleviate the soreness. He looking to improve on last year's .268/.297/.366 mark with the Rangers in 112 at-bats.

Alex Rios to DH Friday

Rios was dealing with a toe injury during camp, but was cleared for baseball activities Monday. The team is probably just trying to make sure he doesn't push it too hard early. Rios hit .278/.324/.432 in 616 at-bats last year.

Alex Rios dealing with toe soreness

(2/21/2014)Rangers outfielder Alex Rios is dealing with a sore big toe on his left foot, which has plagued him since his time playing on artificial turf in Toronto, MLB.com reports.

"I've had to deal with this for seven years going back to Toronto," Rios said. "When it comes up, it takes a couple of days to go away. When it hurts, it's bad."

The minor injury won't hurt Rios' preparation for the 2014 season. Splitting 2013 between Chicago and Texas, Rios hit .278/.324/.432 with 18 home runs, 81 RBI and 42 stolen bases in 616 at-bats. He also hit .280/.315/.457 after landing with the Rangers but struggled at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington (now called Global Life Park in Arlington), hitting just .268/.297/.366 in 112 at-bats.

Alex Rios hits for the cycle

by Jeff Lippman | CBSSports.com

(9/23/2013)Rangers outfielder Alex Rios became the third player this season to hit for the cycle Monday in a blowout victory over the Astros. The first Texas player since Adrian Beltre to accomplish the feat, Rios recorded his in six innings.

He went 4 for 4 with his 18th home run coming for a solo shot in the fourth inning. He hit his 30th double and fourth triple in the game and scored three runs. He drove in four overall and has 76 RBI on the year to go with his .280 batting average.

Rios has hits in seven of his last 10 games but his average has actually dropped a small percentage point over that span.

Alex Rios homers, steals base in win

by R.J. White | CBSSports.com

(9/19/2013)Rangers outfielder Alex Rios contributed to a big Rangers win Thursday, going 2 for 5 with a home run and a stolen base as the Rangers rolled over the Rays, 9-2.

Rios has four homers and six steals over 69 at-bats in September. He owns a .278/.326/.428 line with 17 home runs, 72 RBI and 38 stolen bases in 575 at-bats between the Rangers and White Sox.

Alex Rios posts three hits against Pirates

by Jack Moore | CBSSports.com

(9/11/2013)Rangers outfielder Alex Rios posted a three-hit game in Tuesday's loss to Pittsburgh.

Rios finished 3 for 5 with a double, a run scored and an RBI. Rios has an .864 OPS (132 OPS+) in 109 at-bats for Texas compared to just a .749 mark (98 OPS+) in 430 at-bats for the White Sox prior to being traded.

Alex Rios records three hits

by Jeff Lippman | CBSSports.com

(9/2/2013)Rangers outfielder Alex Rios had a three-hit game Monday night in Oakland. Rios went 3 for 4 in the loss to the A's.

Rios doubled among his three hits and is batting .278 on the season. He's hit in four straight games and has gone 6 for 15 over that stretch with two doubles. He has 33 stolen bases on the year.

Alex Rios drives in two

by Chris Cwik | CBSSports.com

(8/27/2013)Rangers outfielder Alex Rios drove in two runs Monday against the Mariners.

Rios went 2 for 4, with a single and a double. He finished the game with one run scored and two RBI. Rios is hitting .277/.324/.418 in 491 at-bats.

Alex Rios has four hits in first two games with Texas

by Jeff Lippman | CBSSports.com

(8/11/2013)Rangers new addition Alex Rios had another two-hit game in his second contest with his new team Sunday at Houston. Rios drove in a run in the 6-1 victory.

Rios finished 2 for 4 and had an RBI double in the sixth inning. He scored twice in the game and is batting .281 on the season.

Coming over from Chicago, Rios has gone 4 for 7 with a walk, double, triple, three runs scored and two RBI in two games with the Rangers. He's driven in 57 runs on the year. He's also among the leaders with 26 stolen bases.

Rios' move to Texas can't hurt his value

by Al Melchior | Data Analyst

(8/9/2013)Even though he's in the "down" part of his up-again, down-again power cycle, Alex Rios has had a productive Fantasy season so far this year. He's been a top 20 outfielder in standard Rotisserie and Head-to-Head formats, and that shouldn't change now that he's been moved by the White Sox to the Rangers.

Though Rios has mashed only 12 home runs, he has helped Fantasy owners with 26 stolen bases and 22 doubles. The latter total should rise at a faster rate in Texas, as Rangers Ballpark in Arlington has been a better doubles park than U.S. Cellular Field. Rios could also get more run-scoring opportunities in the Rangers' lineup.

Rios is starting in nearly all leagues on CBSSports.com, and this move doesn't affect his must-start status. He has one year remaining on his current contract, so assuming Rios stays with the Rangers, his keeper value is slightly enhanced.

Alex Rios shipped to Texas

by Chris Towers | CBSSports.com

(8/9/2013)Despite reports that a deal was unlikely, the White Sox agreed to trade outfielder Alex Rios to the Rangers Friday, as first reported by CSNChicago. Rios was claimed off waivers by the Rangers earlier in the week, and a deal was worked out prior to Friday's deadline.

The White Sox will receive either a player to be named later or cash in exchange for Rios, who has two years and $26 million remaining on his contract.

Deal sending Alex Rios to Rangers unlikely

by R.J. White | CBSSports.com

(8/8/2013)A deal sending White Sox outfielder Alex Rios to the Rangers is unlikely, MLB.com reports. Rios was claimed off revocable waivers by the Rangers this week, and the two sides have until Friday to work out a deal.

The two teams discussed a Rios trade before the July 31 trading deadline but couldn't come to terms on a deal. Rios has hit .277/.328/.421 with 12 home runs, 55 RBI and 26 stolen bases in 430 at-bats.

Alex Rios claimed by Rangers

by Chris Cwik | CBSSports.com

(8/8/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios has been claimed by the Rangers, according to the Dallas Morning News.

The White Sox can make three moves now. They can attempt to work out a deal with the Rangers for Rios, let Rios go to the Rangers for nothing or pull Rios off waivers. If they choose to let Rios go for nothing, they would be able to rid themselves of his salary. Rios is slated to make $13 million next year. If they choose the third option, Rios would not be able to be pulled back from waivers.

Rios is hitting .277/.328/.421 in 430 at-bats.

Alex Rios claimed on waivers

The team that claimed Rios is not known at this time. Rios was considered a strong trade candidate at the deadline, but a deal did not materialize. He's owed $13 million in 2014, and has a $13.5 million option for 2015.

Rios is hitting .277/.328/.421 in 430 at-bats.

Alex Rios with big offensive night

by Jeff Lippman | CBSSports.com

(8/6/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios had a nice performance in an easy win over the Yankees Monday night. Rios went 2 for 4 with four RBI and a stolen base.

Rios drove in a run with a first-inning single to right. He added a single to center to plate two runs in the second and a bases-loaded walk for another RBI in the third to make it 7-0 White Sox.

Rios, who stole his 25th base, scored and added a walk. He's batting .276 on the season. The 32-year-old has hit in seven straight games with six RBI over that span.

Alex Rios gets a rest

by Chris Cwik | CBSSports.com

(8/1/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios is not in the club's starting lineup Thursday against the Indians.

Rios fouled a ball off his foot Tuesday, and left the game, but was able to return Thursday. He'll be replaced in right by the newly-promoted Jordan Danks. Rios is hitting .272/.323/.425 in 405 at-bats.

Alex Rios collects run, RBI in loss

by R.J. White | CBSSports.com

(7/31/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios was back in his team's lineup Wednesday after bruising his foot the previous day, and he went 1 for 5 with one run and one RBI in his team's 6-5 loss to the Indians.

Rios also struck out twice, giving him eight strikeouts and no walks in his last eight games. He owns a .272/.323/.425 line with 12 home runs, 50 RBI and 22 stolen bases in 405 at-bats.

Alex Rios back in lineup Wednesday

by R.J. White | CBSSports.com

(7/31/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios is back in the starting lineup for the team's matchup with the Indians Wednesday. He suffered a bruised left foot on a foul ball Tuesday, causing him to leave Tuesday's game early.

Rios, who was the subject of trade rumors before Wednesday's deadline, has hit .273/.324/.428 with 12 home runs, 49 RBI and 22 stolen bases in 400 at-bats.

Alex Rios has bruised left foot

by Jeff Lippman | CBSSports.com

(7/30/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios, who left Tuesday's loss at Cleveland after fouling a pitch off his foot, has a bruised left foot, the Chicago Tribune reports. Rios has X-rays coming and is considered day to day.

Alex Rios fouls ball off foot

by Jeff Lippman | CBSSports.com

(7/30/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios, who has been the subject of many trade rumors, left Tuesday's game at Cleveland early. He wasn't traded, however, as he left after fouling a pitch off his foot, the Chicago Tribune reports.

Rios received medical attention and walked slowly off the field under his own power. He should be considered day to day.

The outfielder went 1 for 3 with a single and a run scored before leaving the game. He's batting .273 on the year with 12 homers and 49 RBI.

White Sox and Pirates talking about Alex Rios

The two sides are "close" on a deal, but are attempting to figure out cash issues. The Pirates likely want the White Sox to assume more of Rios' salary. Rios is owed $13 million next year. He's hitting .272/.324/.428 in 397 at-bats.

Rangers no longer going after Alex Rios

by Chris Cwik | CBSSports.com

(7/29/2013)The Rangers are not pursuing Alex Rios in a trade, according to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.

The team had been mentioned as a potential landing spot for Rios, but there's no longer strong interest. General manager Jon Daniels said he does not expect to make any big splashes before the trade deadline. The White Sox were reportedly looking for two prospects, plus a lesser player for Rios.

Nothing imminent with Alex Rios

Rios' agent, Paul Kinzer, said his client is going to stay with the White Sox unless other teams are willing to raise their offers. ESPN's Jayson Stark reported the team is looking for two prospects, plus a lesser player, for Rios.

Alex Rios not bothered by trade rumors

Rios said he's aware of the rumors, but he's trying not to think about them. "I’ve always said you can’t control it and I will land wherever they want me to land. There is not much I can do," Rios said.

Rios admitted that he would have mixed feelings about a deal. "You have spent so much time in an organization, you know pretty much everybody and you have to start over in another place. It’s tough," Rios added.

Rios would surely be coveted as insurance for Texas should anything happen to Nelson Cruz. The 32-year-old Rios has hit .278 this season with 12 homers and 21 stolen bases over 95 games on the year for Chicago, which is currently in last place.

Alex Rios hits grand slam in big performance

by R.J. White | CBSSports.com

(7/20/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios hit a third-inning grand slam as part of a 3-for-5 performance in Saturday's 10-6 win over the Braves. He added two runs and five RBI to his 12th home run while lifting his season line to .275/.330/.442 in 360 at-bats.

Alex Rios benched for lack of hustle

Braves shortstop Andrelton Simmons bobbled the ball, but still completed the double play to end the inning. Casper Wells replaced him in right field to start the seventh inning. Rios finished 1 for 3 with a two-run double in the third inning before being pulled.

"There are just expectations, and we're not starting the second half off that way," manager Robin Ventura said, per ESPN. "It was simple. He'll be back in, but tonight, that's what happens when you don't run."

Rios has drawn some interest from some teams and could be on his way out before the trade deadline. He is hitting .270 with 11 homers and 42 RBI in 355 at-bats.

"He knows, so it's pretty simple," Ventura said. "The other (trade rumor) stuff, I'm just worried about our team and how we go about it. And he knows, so …"

Heyman: Pirates looking at Alex Rios

by R.J. White | CBSSports.com

(7/19/2013)The Pirates are said to be among the teams interested in acquiring White Sox outfielder Alex Rios, CBSSports.com baseball insider Jon Heyman reports. Trade talks between the teams could be expanded to include White Sox shortstop Alexei Ramirez as well, according to the report.

Alex Rios ties franchise record with six hits

by Jeff Lippman | CBSSports.com

(7/9/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios tied the franchise record with six hits Tuesday night in Detroit. It was only the fifth time in team history it was accomplished, the Chicago Tribune reports.

Rios' sixth hit was an RBI single to right field in the ninth inning. He added an RBI single and a triple in the eighth. Rios went 6 for 6 with a run scored and is batting .281. He also stole two bases and has 19 SBs. He is 8 for 14 over his last three games.

Alex Rios has limited no-trade clause

by Michael Hurcomb | CBSSports.com

(7/3/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios, who is under contract through 2014 with a team option for 2015, could be a player targeted as the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline. However, not all teams could be players for the 32-year-old outfielder, according to the Chicago Tribune.

Rios has a limited no-trade clause in his contract, which allows him to block a deal to six teams. They are the Yankees, Diamondbacks, Rockies, Astros, Royals and Athletics.

White Sox listening to offers for Alex Rios

by Igor Mello | CBSSports.com

(6/27/2013)The White Sox have made everyone but Chris Sale and Paul Konerko available before the trade deadline, and outfielder Alex Rios could be a star on the market, according to CBSSports.com Baseball Insider Jon Heyman.

The Rangers, Yankees, Giants, Phillies and Royals are among teams that could fit for Rios. He can play all three outfield positions and could be considered a bargain based on his production. Rios has 11 homers, 35 RBI and 13 stolen bases 74 games. He is hitting .276/.335/.459 in 290 at-bats.

Alex Rios keeps producing

by Jeff Lippman | CBSSports.com

(6/17/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios continued to produce Monday during a win at Houston. Rios picked up two hits and a stolen base in the game.

He went 2 for 4 with a double and stole his 11th base. Rios is batting .288.

The 32-year-old has been highly productive this year with 11 homers, 33 RBI and 36 runs scored. He's among the top 10 in the American League with his 11 steals.

Alex Rios records three hits

by Jeff Lippman | CBSSports.com

(6/12/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios recorded three hits during a loss to the Blue Jays in extra innings Tuesday.

Rios went 3 for 5 with three singles and a run scored. He's batting .293 for the season.

The outfielder has hit in eight straight games and is 13 for 34 (.382) over that stretch with five RBI. He has 11 homers and 33 RBI on the year.

Alex Rios has four hits in wild affair

by Jeff Lippman | CBSSports.com

(6/5/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios recorded four hits in Wednesday's wild 7-5 16-inning win at Seattle. Rios singled for all four base hits.

The veteran went 4 for 8 in the game with two RBI and a run scored as all seven Chicago runs were scored in extra innings. Rios' RBI single to center in the 14th was the first run scored in the game by either team. Rios later capped the scoring in the 16th with an RBI infield single.

Rios is now batting .286 after going 0 for 4 in Tuesday's game. He has 10 homers, 30 RBI and eight steals on the year to go with 32 runs scored.

Alex Rios on 12-game hit streak

by Jeff Lippman | CBSSports.com

(5/18/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios went deep for the 10th time this season Friday in a win over the Angels.

Rios' solo shot came with two outs in the first inning against starter C.J. Wilson. Rios went 2 for 3 with a walk in the game. He's batting .297.

Rios has a 12-game hitting streak. Over the streak, Rios has gone 19 for 49 (.388) with four homers and nine RBI.

Alex Rios' hit streak at 10 games

by Jeff Lippman | CBSSports.com

(5/15/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios had another solid game with his bat on Wednesday during a 9-4 win at Minnesota. Rios recorded three more hits and reached base four times.

Rios went 3 for 4 with a walk and three runs scored. He tripled, singled twice and stole his seventh base. Rios scored in the third, fifth and eighth innings.

The 32-year-old has hit in 10 consecutive games and has gone 16 for 41 (.390) over that stretch with four doubles, two homers, a triple, seven RBI and nine runs. He's batting .293 with eight homers and 20 RBI.

Alex Rios with another strong performance

by Jeff Lippman | CBSSports.com

(5/8/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios hit his eighth home run of the season Wednesday in New York against the Mets. Rios went deep for a solo shot in the ninth inning to give the Sox a cushion.

The No. 3 hitter went 3 for 5 with a double. He drove in two runs and scored three times for Chicago.

Rios has hit in four straight games and is 7 for 18 over that stretch with two homers and four RBI. He's up to eight homers and 17 RBI on the year with six steals and 20 runs scored.

Alex Rios ahead of 2012 HR pace

by Ed Gauna | CBSSports.com

(5/5/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios hit his seventh home run Sunday afternoon against the Royals. He took reliever Aaron Crow deep for a solo shot in the seventh inning.

The 32-year-old also drove a run home when he reached on fielder's choice and finished 1 for 4 with two RBI and a walk in the 6-5 loss.

Rios did not hit his seventh home run last season until June 15.

Alex Rios ups production with two outs

by R.J. White | CBSSports.com

(5/3/2013)White Sox right fielder Alex Rios has proven to be a dangerous hitter with two outs this season, posting a .344/.417/.688 line with three home runs in 32 plate appearances when hitting with two outs.

Rios is also coming off an April where he hit six home runs, matching his combined April production from the last four seasons. He'll try to stay productive in key situations this weekend against the Royals.

Alex Rios goes deep in victory

by Jeff Lippman | CBSSports.com

(4/24/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios went deep on Wednesday during a 3-2 win over Cleveland. Rios took starter Zach McAllister deep to left field in the fifth inning for a two-run shot.

Rios finished the game 1 for 4 and is batting .297 on the year. The two RBI gives him 11. Rios had gone 1 for 13 in his previous four games since hitting his last homer on April 17 at Toronto.

Rios has six homers and three stolen bases after 74 at-bats.

Alex Rios among the top AL outfielders

by Michael Hurcomb | CBSSports.com

(4/15/2013)Since the start of the 2012 season, only four AL outfielders have an higher OPS than White Sox outfielder Alex Rios (.864), per MLB.com. They are Mike Trout (.946), Josh Hamilton (.938), Josh Willingham (.908) and Jose Bautista (.878).

Adam Jones and Hamilton are the only AL outfielders with more extra-base hits than Rios' 76, and only Trout (.321), Torii Hunter (.320) and Austin Jackson (.309) have hit for a higher average than Rios' .307 mark.

"I feel like I made adjustments last year that helped me through the season," Rios said. "It seems I've carried them over into this season, and they're working fine. I'm pretty pleased and right where I want to be."

Rios is batting .462 (17 for 47) with three doubles, four home runs and eight RBI in 12 games.

"I think coming into last year, you felt like he was a three-hole hitter, but last year he ended up hitting fifth," manager Robin Ventura said. "This year, he's hitting third. But it doesn't matter where he hits, he just goes out and plays. I said last year he was probably our best overall everyday player. He does the most things in a game that can help you win a game."

Alex Rios remains in early groove

by Bill Passonno | CBSSports.com

(4/11/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios extended his season-long hitting streak to nine games with a pair of doubles during Chicago's 7-4 loss at Washington on Thursday night. Rios finished 2 for 4 -- his third straight multi-hit outing -- with a walk to improve his batting average to .429.

One night after his impressive homer streak was halted at four straight games, his stretch of consecutive outings with an RBI was halted at five on Thursday.

Alex Rios homers again

by Igor Mello | CBSSports.com

(4/10/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios stayed red hot at the plate as he homered for the fourth consecutive game Tuesday night against the Nationals.

Rios took closer Rafael Soriano deep for a two-run shot in the ninth inning to cut the White Sox's deficit to one run. He finished 3 for 5 with a run scored and two RBI in an 8-7 defeat.

Rios has reached base safely in his first seven games and boasts a .407/.467/.852 slash line.

Alex Rios on a homer streak

by Ed Gauna | CBSSports.com

(4/7/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios has found his power after failing to hit a home run in 21 spring-training at-bats.

He homered for the third consecutive day in Sunday's series finale against the Mariners. The 32-year-old led off the seventh inning with a game-tying shot off starter Hisashi Iwakuma and finished 1 for 4 in a 4-3 win.

“I guess I am seeing the ball very well,” Rios said. “I try to take a good approach at the plate and see it.”

Rios enjoyed a bounce-back campaign last season after a down 2011 and told ESPN.com that he does not listen much to what others say about him.

“It really doesn’t matter to me,” Rios said of his doubters. “I come here to do the best I can. Sometimes, you are going to have good years and sometimes, bad years. Myself, I am going to focus on having a good approach at the plate all the time and keep going.”

Alex Rios comes up with big home run

by Jeff Lippman | CBSSports.com

(4/6/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios had the big hit for Chicago Saturday against the Mariners. On a windy day, Rios sliced a Felix Hernandez pitch through the gusts and into the seats.

Rios went deep for a two-run shot in the sixth inning off Hernandez to give the Mariners the lead for good in the 4-3 win. It was his second home run of the season.

"The way the wind was blowing today, there's no chance you can predict what the ball's going to do or how the wind's going to react," Rios said. "You're just hoping to put good swings on the ball and then hopefully they fall."

Rios finished 1 for 3 with a walk in the game and is batting .389 on the year with four RBI. He's started the season on a five-game hitting streak and has homered in back-to-back games.

Alex Rios with two hits, stolen base

by Jeff Lippman | CBSSports.com

(4/1/2013)White Sox right fielder Alex Rios had a nice game in a 1-0 win over the Royals Monday on opening day. The outfielder collected two base hits among the eight the Sox had on the day.

Rios went 2 for 3 with a walk as he reached base three times. He singled twice and also struck out against the Royals. Rios also managed his first stolen base of the season.

The 32-year-old Rios stole 23 bases last year and is off to a good start this season in that department. He also hit .304 last year and showed he could come close to duplicating that solid production.

Alex Rios returns to lineup

by Igor Mello | CBSSports.com

(3/29/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios returned to the starting lineup Friday against the Brewers.

Rios, who had been sidelined since March 22 with a stiff back, went 1 for 2 with a double and two walks in a 7-2 victory. He is batting .412/.444/.765 in just 17 at-bats this spring.

White Sox manager Robin Ventura told MLB.com that he is not worried about Rios' status for opening day.

"He says he feels fine," Ventura said. "I trust in him to go out there and play."

Alex Rios hopes to return Friday

by R.J. White | CBSSports.com

(3/27/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios hopes to return to the lineup Friday, according to MLB.com. Rios, whose last action came on March 22, has been dealing with back stiffness. Rios has stated in recent days that he'll be ready for opening day.

Alex Rios not concerned by sore back

by Bill Passonno | CBSSports.com

(3/26/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios said Tuesday he will be ready for opening day after an MRI on his sore back revealed no additional problems, the Chicago Sun-Times reports. Rios added he hopes to return to game action this weekend. "There's nothing. There's just pain," said Rios, who is batting .412 with five extra-base hits this spring. "There's nothing to be worried about. And I think it's just going to take time to heal."

Alex Rios a Rotisserie gem

by Michael Hurcomb | CBSSports.com

(3/26/2013)I love the fact Fantasy owners aren't overlooking White Sox outfielder Alex Rios, especially in Rotisserie formats. Rios is one of my favorite players to target in Rotisserie leagues because I think most experts undervalue him in those formats, but the results don't lie. Rios was the fifth-highest scoring Fantasy outfielder in Roto formats last season and was the seventh-highest in 2010.

Last season in Roto, Rios finished ahead of Curtis Granderson, Carlos Gonzalez, Matt Holliday and Giancarlo Stanton, who are players that usually go rounds ahead of him on Draft Day. I might pass on Rios in Head-to-Head leagues, but I make it a priority to have him part of my outfield alignment in Rotisserie leagues.

Alex Rios headed for MRI

by Michael Hurcomb | CBSSports.com

(3/25/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios said Monday he is expected to have an MRI done on his back, but he continues to say he's not worried about his injury, according to the Chicago Sun-Times.

"I'm going to get it checked out. I should be fine,'' he said. "I've had this before, I know the feeling so I don't think there is anything we have to worry about.''

Rios also feels he doesn't need to play in another spring game before the season opener.

"I think I've got a lot of work done. I probably need to do a little maintenance now and then," he said.

Alex Rios not worried about back

(3/25/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios was scratched from Monday's spring lineup against the Angels as he continues to deal with back stiffness, according to the Chicago Tribune.

Rios said he is getting his back checked out, but he's not worried about being ready for opening day. Rios, who felt the stiffness after lifting, said he's experienced this before.

Rios is batting .412 (7 for 17) with one triple, four doubles and four homers in seven spring games.

Alex Rios dealing with back stiffness

by Ed Gauna | CBSSports.com

(3/23/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios was scratched from the lineup for Saturday's Cactus League game against the Dodgers due to lower back stiffness, MLB.com reports. Rios said he felt it while lifting weights, but it's not considered serious.

Rios is 7 for 17 (.412) with four RBI and five runs scored through seven spring games.

Alex Rios not hurting his case

by Scott White | Senior Fantasy Writer

(3/18/2013)The most important thing about Alex Rios' two-run homer Sunday is that it sent Puerto Rico to the final round of the World Baseball Classic, but it also gave him his fourth extra-base hit in 37 at-bats this spring, combing his WBC stats with his Cactus League stats.

Of course, with that pathetically small sample size, it doesn't mean much, but for a player whose career has been as up-and-down as Rios', a lack of bad news is sort of like good news.

He's typically going in about the ninth or 10th round. So far, he's given me no reason to pass on him at that point.

Alex Rios powers Team Puerto Rico

by Ed Gauna | CBSSports.com

(3/18/2013)White Sox outfielder Alex Rios helped Team Puerto Rico get past Team Japan in Sunday's World Baseball Classic matchup. He went 2 for 4 with a home run in the 3-1 win. Rios hit a two-run bomb in the seventh inning for his first long ball of the tournament.

Rios had a resurgent campaign for Chicago a year ago, batting .304 and posting career highs in homers (25) and RBI (91).

Rios might move up lineup

by Michael Hurcomb | CBSSports.com

(2/19/2013)Although Alex Rios had a bounce-back season hitting fifth in the White Sox lineup last season, he isn't opposed to moving up in the batting order. "If you have success in a spot in the lineup you might not want to change that, but I might actually be better off third with [Paul] Konerko and (Adam) Dunn behind me because I might get better pitches,'' Rios said, per the Chicago Sun-Times. "I really don't mind. I've always felt that hitting is the same in any spot.'' Rios said it might make more sense to have his speed in front of Konerko and Dunn. "Those are guys who are going to drive the ball,'' Rios said. "With people who can move on the bases, that might help us to score more runs, I don't know.''